This Symposium will focus on describing sound financial strategies for
cooperative businesses and introducing newer innovative strategies that
have been proved as effective. These strategies include income
distribution alternatives and equity redemption alternatives coordinated using balance
sheet management. One new strategy is how to best capture the benefits of
Section 199 based on your co-op’s unique situation.Many unusual and interesting
financial strategies are being proposed by so-called “experts” but some
are ineffective, even dangerous. Come learn what works and what doesn’t work based on the best research and best implementation experience.

The Leadership Roundtable will focus on social technology
and media. We will first define social technology and social media,
provide examples of useful strategies to incorporate into your business,
and then provide case studies to demonstrate how other agricultural
companies and producers are using social media to promote their business.
Even if you do not participate in social media, it is wise to know what
others are saying about your business. Do you know who is talking about
you? Strategies for monitoring social media sites and managing your
reputation will be highlighted as well.